The annual Hambleton Hall October Mushroom Hunt went ahead on Saturday 10 October. As outdoor events remain possible, this was a well-attended occasion, and local Food and Drink Writer, Debs Pennell, was lucky enough to take part.
This popular event was led by expert mycologist Paul Nichol and Tim Hart owner of Hambleton Hall Hotel. Foragers were treated to a morning of hunting for mushrooms in local woods followed by an exceptional mushroom-inspired three-course lunch at the hotel.
Having collected a veritable array of fungi, guests assembled in the woods for discussion and identification. Paul Nichol’s informative and eloquent description of each mushroom and Tim Hart’s witty interjections were interesting and amusing. The morning’s foraging resulted in the group collecting a goodly number of edible fungi, but with one deadly poisonous variety amongst them, and several rather toxic individual species. Mushroom foraging remains a risky business, with around 50 poisonous mushroom varieties in this country, 15 of those being deadly!
After a morning in the woods, everyone was ready to enjoy Head Chef, Aaron Patterson’s Fungi Foray lunch, which was an enviable compilation of exquisite flavours, textures and autumn colours: Cèpe Tortellino, Wild Mushroom Consommé flavoured with Tarragon, Roast Guinea Fowl, Trompettes, Wild Mushroom Risotto and a seasonal dessert of Sablé Breton, Caramelised Apples and Blackberries; clean and earthy on the palate and a work of art to the eyes. A Michelin-starred lunch with exceptional service from the charming front of house team.
Hambleton Hall holds several events during the year for non-residents of the hotel. Subscribe to the mailing list to receive special offers and updates on their latest news.
This blog was originally published in Local Living Magazines. Together with the image it has been reproduced with permission of Deborah Pennell, Freelance Food And Drink Writer. Instagram: @eatdrinkforage
